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Middle East Edition
14th May 2025
 
THE HOT STORY
Deadly risks to migrant workers building stadiums for the 2034 World Cup
Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised the alarm over the safety of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia, particularly those involved in construction for the 2034 World Cup. The NGO reported that "scores of migrant workers in Saudi Arabia die in gruesome yet avoidable workplace-related accidents," as it highlighted the lack of adequate safety measures and compensation for families. HRW's investigation into nearly 50 cases revealed that the Saudi authorities have failed to protect workers from preventable deaths and to investigate safety incidents. As construction ramps up for the World Cup, HRW warns that the risks are escalating. The organisation has urged FIFA to ensure proper investigations into work-related deaths and adequate compensation for bereaved families. Despite FIFA's plans for a workers' welfare system, HRW claims that "FIFA is knowingly risking yet another tournament that will unnecessarily come at a grave human cost." The report also noted that many deaths are attributed to so-called "natural causes," which often go uninvestigated and uncompensated.
WORKPLACE
HR Tech MENA 2025 has launched
The HR Tech MENA 2025 summit opened in Dubai yesterday, bringing together the industry's top solution providers to explore the future of work in Dubai. CHROs, CTOs, CIOs, VPs of HR and IT, and digital transformation experts from across the region gathered in the city to hear from acclaimed industry leaders, share best practices, discuss challenges, and explore solutions that will define the workplace of tomorrow.
TECHNOLOGY
Saudi Arabia launches AI venture Humain ahead of Donald Trump visit
Saudi Arabia has launched Humain, a new artificial intelligence company to drive the Kingdom’s strategy and investments as it seeks to become a global AI hub.
TAX
Law to tax multinational companies is approved in Bahrain
Bahrain has enacted a 15% Domestic Minimum Top-Up Tax on multinational enterprises (MNEs) with global revenues exceeding $833.59m, following unanimous approval from the Shura Council. The legislation aligns Bahrain with international tax reforms led by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) and aims to prevent tax base erosion. Khalid Al Maskati, chairman of the Shura's financial committee, said: “This law ensures Bahrain remains an active player in the evolving international tax framework.” The government anticipates generating BD130m annually from 348 companies, reinforcing Bahrain's investment appeal and fiscal sovereignty. The law includes provisions for tax calculation, liabilities, and dispute resolution, ensuring comprehensive coverage of all legal entities. However, concerns have been raised regarding the tax authority's 10-year window for prosecution and the clarity of financial benchmarks.
LEGAL
Abu Dhabi sets divorce record
The Abu Dhabi Civil Family Court has made history with the largest no-fault divorce settlement in the GCC, approving a financial agreement exceeding Dh100m (£27m) for a foreign couple. The couple, originally married in the UK, filed for divorce in Abu Dhabi, where the court processed their petition in under three weeks, thanks to the Civil Marriage Law No. 14 of 2021. This law, the first of its kind in the Arab region, governs family matters for non-Muslim expatriates. The settlement was facilitated by a prominent UK family law firm, showcasing the growing international confidence in Abu Dhabi's judicial system. The court, which operates in both English and Arabic, is attracting high-net-worth individuals seeking modern and transparent family law proceedings.
STRATEGY
Oman and London Business School meet
In Muscat, the Omani Human Resources Management Association and London Business School convened to discuss executive programmes aimed at enhancing human resources management. Dr. Ghaleb Saif Al Hosni, chair of the Omani HR Management Association, emphasised the importance of adapting global best practices to local contexts. He said: “This meeting highlights global best practices and their adaptation to align with local realities.” Prof. Florin Vasvari, dean of executive education for the Middle East at London Business School, remarked that this collaboration is vital for strengthening ties with Oman and reflects a mutual commitment to “developing human capabilities in both the public and private sectors.” This partnership aims to equip skilled professionals to tackle future challenges in the HR landscape.
Norway's fund cuts ties with Paz over Israel
Norway's sovereign wealth fund has divested all shares in Paz Retail and Energy due to its involvement in supplying fuel to Israeli settlements in the occupied West Bank. This decision follows a stricter interpretation of ethical standards by the fund's Council on Ethics, which said: "By operating infrastructure for the supply of fuel to the Israeli settlements on the West Bank, Paz is contributing to their perpetuation." The divestment is part of a broader trend among European financial entities to sever ties with Israeli companies amid escalating calls for boycotts since the Gaza conflict began in October 2023.
INTERNATIONAL
Workday wins agency contract without competition
HR platform Workday has secured a contract from the US Office of Personnel Management without competitive tender. A sole-source award to Workday is required due to "an urgent confluence of operational failures and binding federal mandates that require immediate action," the agency that is key to billionaire Trump advisor Elon Musk's efforts to slash the federal workforce said in a memo, citing strict Trump administration deadlines for workforce restructuring and hiring reforms. "OPM's fragmented and outdated HR systems have reached a critical failure point, resulting in payroll errors, benefits disruptions, and a manual workload that is no longer sustainable," said the memo.
Spanish workers may soon have 2.5 more hours of weekly rest
Spain's government has approved a bill to reduce the workweek from 40 hours to 37.5 hours, potentially granting workers an additional 2.5 hours of rest each week. The change, which will benefit 12.5m private sector workers, aims to enhance productivity and decrease absenteeism. Labour Minister Yolanda Díaz said: “Today, we are modernising the world of labour and helping people to be a little happier.” The bill, proposed by the left-wing party Sumar (Joining Forces), must now pass through parliament, where it faces scrutiny from various political factions, including concerns from the Catalan nationalist party Junts regarding its impact on small businesses. Spain has maintained a 40-hour workweek since 1983.
Workplace accidents in Thailand targeted
Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn has unveiled the "Safety Thailand" vision during National Occupational Safety Day 2025, in an attempt to significantly reduce workplace accidents and fatalities by 2030. The target is to decrease severe injuries from 2.13 to no more than one per 1,000 workers and fatalities from 5.3 to a maximum of three per 100,000 workers. Phiphat emphasised that "safety is not just a legal requirement but a fundamental right," as he highlighted the need for safety standards to evolve alongside technological advancements. The minister outlined proactive measures, including strict legal enforcement and public awareness campaigns, while also addressing the importance of preparing for future risks such as machinery-related accidents and natural disasters. He has tasked the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare with enhancing safety measures in road construction projects, particularly along Rama II Road.
Vietnam introduces 10-year golden visa
Vietnam has introduced a 10-year golden visa programme aimed at attracting individuals who will contribute to the country's economy, tourism, or innovation sectors. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to establish Vietnam as a sustainable travel and investment hub in Southeast Asia. The programme targets global investors, skilled professionals, business leaders, and remote workers seeking stability. Unlike standard tourist visas, it offers long-term benefits without the hassle of frequent renewals. Martin Koerner, group commercial director at The Anam luxury resort chain, said: "The expanded visa waivers will boost the tourism sector by encouraging more European travellers." Following a record influx of over 6m international visitors in early 2025, Vietnam is also streamlining its visa application process and extending visa-free travel for citizens of several countries. The government aims to attract 22m–23m international arrivals through global promotional campaigns this year.
OTHER
Ultra-processed foods linked to Parkinson's risk
Research published in the journal Neurology indicates that ultra-processed foods, such as breakfast cereals and soft drinks, may significantly increase the risk of developing Parkinson's disease. Individuals consuming around 11 servings of these foods daily had a 2.5-times higher likelihood of experiencing early symptoms compared to those with lower intake.  The study tracked nearly 43,000 US health professionals over 26 years, revealing a link between high ultra-processed food consumption and various early Parkinson's symptoms, excluding constipation. Dr. Xiang Gao, senior researcher at Fudan University, said: “Eating a healthy diet is crucial as it has been associated with a lower risk of neurodegenerative diseases.”
 


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